Courses

The Teaching Church

(MFFND 5111)

A study of the biblical and theological basis for the teaching ministry of the church. Emphasis will be given to the purposes of education in New Testament churches and principles related to application.

The Functioning Church

(MFADM 5111)

A study of the biblical and theological basis for the administration ministry of the church. Focus will be given to the biblical principles of enlisting, training, and supervising leaders for church ministries.

Pastoral Leadership

(MFLDS 5211)

An analysis of emerging issues in current Christian leadership. Models of current leadership theory and practice will be examined and suggestions made for integrating leadership models and Christian faith.

Principles of Teaching for Chaplains

(MFFND 5611)

A study of how to teach effectively both in a Christian context and in the religious diversity of institutional settings. This will include principles and methods of teaching, curriculum design, planning of classes, and development of delivery skills. It will focus on conveying knowledge/understanding, articulating values, and developing skills which enhance personal Christian ministry.

Administration for Chaplains

(MFADM 5611)

A study of the biblical and theological basis for administrative ministry and of practical principles for effective management in institutional settings. Attention will be given to organizational structures, personnel administration, resource management, program development, operations, training, supervision and leadership development.

Leadership for Chaplains

(MFLDS 5611)

A study of the principles and practices of ministerial leadership in a Christian context and in institutions with diverse religious settings. This includes reflections on the identity, calling, roles and character of chaplains as Christian leaders in community. Models of leadership theory and practice will be examined, emerging challenges for leaders in institutional settings will be discussed, and suggestions will be made for integrating leadership models with biblical principles.

Chaplain Ministry

(MFPMN 5611)

A study of Christian ministry in institutional settings. Focus will be on the identity, vocation, roles, skills, qualifications, and endorsement of chaplains in military, health-care, correctional, corporate, veterans, law enforcement, fire department, and disaster relief settings. Attention will be given to issues such as free exercise of religion, role conflict, institutional duality, ministerial collegiality, and ministry in pluralistic settings.

Pastoral Care of the Family in Institutional Settings

(MFPMN 5621)

A study of human development and relationships within families in institutional, religiously diverse, secular and transitory settings. Attention will be given to family systems, marital and inter-generational relationships, stages of the life cycle, parenting issues, basic marriage and family counseling, and coping with the unique pressures of institutional life.

Pastoral Care of Persons in Crisis and Grief

(MFPMN 5622)

A study of ministry to persons in acutely stressful situations. Attention will be given to the pastoral care of individuals suffering personal trauma such as disease, abuse, depression, and bereavement. Students will learn about the dynamics of the grief process, critical incident and post-traumatic stress, and suicide awareness and intervention. They will also learn basic principle of ministry in mass-casualty situations.

Conflict Ministry

(MFPMN 5221)

A study of how to minister in discordant situations. Attention will be given to dynamics of personal and systemic conflict. Students will learn about models for effective intervention and resolution of conflict.

Relationships in Chaplain Ministry

(MFPSY 5611)

A study of human relations in institutional ministry. Attention will be given to understanding the chaplain’s identity and relationship to God, other individuals, groups, and the institution within which the chaplain ministers. Students will also learn about peer relationships and collegiality, as well as relationships of protégés with mentors, and supervisors with subordinates.

Basic Christian Counseling

(MFPSY 5111)

An introduction to theories and methods of Christian counseling. Attention will be given to personality theories, counseling techniques, and theology found in Scripture, and to the integration of these principles with current psychological theories and methods. The student will learn basic counseling skills and techniques and will develop a personal model of counseling consistent with Scripture.

Group Dynamics in Institutional Structures

(MFPSY 5612)

A study of the nature, dynamics and interaction of groups in institutional settings. Attention will be given to how religious leaders and other group members interact within formal and informal structures and through formal and informal processes in military, health-care, correctional, corporate, and other community-related structures.

Crisis Ministry Certification

(MFPMN 5631)

Students will become certified in at least two nationally recognized programs of training for ministry in emergency or disaster situations, such as Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and NOVA (National Organization for Victim Assistance) training.

Spirituality and Counseling

(MFPSY 5511)

This course examines the Christian Counseling field, including the history of Christian Counseling, an investigation of issues of integrating psychology and theology, and the development of a Christian worldview as a part of the counseling process. This course is a prerequisite to Practicum I (MFPSY5541).

Personality and Counseling Theory

(MFPSY 5512)

This course surveys the major theories of personality and the associated classical and contemporary counseling theories with particular reference to how these theories are applied in the Christian counseling setting. This course is a prerequisite to Practicum I (MFPSY5541).

Basic Skills in Christian Counseling

(MFPSY 5513)

This course is an introduction to basic counseling skills necessary for various counseling settings. Students will examine underlying theoretical assumptions and theology applicable to counseling skills and will develop and apply these skills in a counseling setting. This course provides the experiential foundation for all practicum courses and is a prerequisite to Practicum I (MFPSY5541).

Premarital and Marriage Counseling

(MFPSY 5514)

This course introduces and focuses on various theories and methods of premarital and marriage counseling. Students will consider the biblical foundation for marriage, common problems faced by couples in marriage, principles of systems relationships, and techniques for effective pre-engagement, pre-marital, and marriage counseling. This course is a prerequisite to Practicum I (MFPSY5541).

Human Growth and Development

(MFPSY 5521)

This course is an overview of developmental process beginning prior to birth and continuing through death, including how individuals develop cognitively, emotionally, physically, spiritually, and relationally across the lifespan. Students will consider applicability of life stage development and transitions to various counseling and ministry settings.

Abnormal Psychology

(MFPSY 5522)

This course surveys historical and modern methods of studying abnormal human behavior. It includes a focus on etiology of abnormal behavior, categories of pathology, and general treatment approaches. Students will consider the relationship between religion and mental health/mental illness and best methods of treatment in a counseling setting or referral in a ministry setting. This course is a Prerequisite to Psychopathology (MFPSY5535).

Group Dynamics and Counseling

(MFPSY 5523)

This course includes a study of group development, processes of group interaction, and basics of conducting counseling in a group setting. Students will consider how to begin a counseling group, methods of effective group leadership and facilitation, evaluating the therapeutic results of group interaction, and ethical issues related to group process and intervention.

Research and Statistics

(MFPSY 5524)

This course studies research design and statistical analysis as applied to counseling, behavioral science, and ministry research fields. Students will examine topics including research methodology, design, measurement, sampling, data gathering, and interpretation. Statistical analysis includes descriptive and inferential procedures for analyzing data. Students will acquire the necessary skills to integrate research into their professional decision-making process.

Counseling Ethics II

(MFPSY 5531)

This course considers further ethical and legal aspects of the counseling field as well as standards for professional conduct. Course content will additionally focus on records management, professional organizations, inter-professional cooperation in the counseling field, licensure processes, current LPC board functioning and rules, and other state laws that regulate the counseling field. This course is taught as a capstone course and, as such, should be taken in the student’s final year of study. (Prerequisite: MFPSY5543)

Practicum I

(MFPSY 5541)

This course offers experiential training under the guidance of an LPC-Supervisor, preparing students to provide counseling services in their remaining practicum semesters. Students will further refine basic counseling skills, will gain additional preparation in counseling ethics and professionalism, and will identify and make arrangements with their practicum placement site. (Prerequisites:Prerequisites: MFPSY5511, MFPSY5512, MFPSY5513, MFPSY5514, MFPSY5517)

Practicum II

(MFPSY 5542)

Students must spend 5-10 hours in a counseling setting, providing counseling services to actual clients. This must be done under the supervision of an individual licensed at the supervisory level for Texas LPC or LMFT state licensure (or the equivalent). (Prerequisites: MFPSY5541).

Practicum III

(MFPSY 5543)

Students must spend 5-10 hours in a counseling setting, providing counseling services to actual clients. This must be done under the supervision of an individual licensed at the supervisory level for Texas LPC or LMFT state licensure (or the equivalent). (Prerequisites: MFPSY5542).

Clinical Training and Internship

(MFPSY 5544)

Students must spend 5-10 hours in a counseling setting, providing counseling services to actual clients. This must be done under the supervision of an individual licensed at the supervisory level for Texas LPC or LMFT state licensure (or the equivalent). (Prerequisites: MFPSY5543).

Testing and Assessment

(MFPSY 5525)

Students will examine the use of assessment techniques and tools, particularly in relationship to individual, marriage, and family counseling. Students will learn to use selected evaluation and testing measures, along with ethical methods of instrument development, administration, and interpretation of results. (Prerequisite: MFPSY5512)

Vocational Guidance

(MFPSY 5526)

This course investigates the history of vocation along with major theories and techniques used in counseling individuals in career-related decisions. Students study the history, principles, and techniques in the field of vocational or career counseling. Students become familiar with, administer, and interpret assessment instruments related to career interest, career choice, and change of vocation.

Cross-Cultural Counseling

(MFPSY 5532)

This course investigates the multiple dimensions related to competent multicultural counseling. Major ethnic groups are studied along with associated counseling approaches. Theories of multicultural counseling and systems-oriented intervention strategies (couple, family, group, and community) are examined as well as the overarching cultural context of relationships, religious and spiritual values, mental and physical characteristics, education, family values, and socioeconomic status. Attention is given to developing awareness of one’s own values, attitudes, and beliefs related to counseling in a diverse society. (Prerequisite: MFPSY5541)

Family Systems and Therapy

(MFPSY 5527)

This course examines conceptual, theoretical, and theological issues related to family, along with issues of family health and development. The course provides a substantive understanding of the major theories of systems function and change and the applied family therapy approaches evolving from each orientation. (Prerequisite: MFPSY5514)5514

Counseling and Human Sexuality

(MFPSY 5533)

This course surveys the broad spectrum of human sexuality issues, including a biblical basis for sexuality, sexual development, and sexual problems that occur for individuals and in marriage. Students will consider various approaches for treatment of sexual problems and will learn to apply related counseling methodology. (Prerequisite: MFPSY5541)

Crisis and Trauma Counseling

(MFPSY 5515)

This course prepares students for counseling opportunities following crisis and trauma events by exploring the essentials of diagnosing and treating acute and post-traumatic stress symptoms, along with related loss and grief processes. This course provides a biblical basis for crisis intervention and a context for treatment of trauma-related disorders as well as best practices in the treatment of trauma with individuals, families, and communities.

Therapy with Children and Adolescents

(MFPSY 5534)

This course surveys major therapeutic approaches with children and adolescents. Psychological and spiritual development will be examined with a focus on how developmental processes influence counseling. Diagnosis and treatment of psychological disorders common to childhood and adolescents will also be addressed.

Family Ministry and Counseling in the Church

(MFPSY 5516)

This course is a comprehensive study of meeting family-related needs of individuals in the church and community, emphasizing preventative care in working with families. Topics such as designing family ministry conferences, establishing support groups, training lay counselors, and developing a counseling ministry in a church setting are the focus of study.

History and Philosophy of Christian Education

(MFFND 5112)

A study of the ideas and events that have shaped educational thought with an analysis of the influence of these ideas on contemporary Christian educational practice. The student will develop a personal philosophy of education that integrates the Christian experience.

Administration of the Church Family

(MFADM 5112)

A study of the need for developing a theology of service for church leaders that includes church polity and organization. Focus on discovering leaders through spiritual gifts, qualifications for service, proper ways of enlisting and equipping people to serve.

Educational Psychology

(MFFND 5113)

An analysis of educational theories in the context of Christian education. Studies in theories of learning, motivation for learning, classroom management, and effective testing practice. Attention will be given to the teaching method of Jesus.

Principles of Teaching

(MFFND 5115)

A study of the principles and methods of effective Christian teaching, including the development of presentation skills. Approaches include planning and teaching for knowledge/ understanding, development of values, and development of skills which enhance personal Christian ministry.

Foundations in Children and Family Ministry

(MFFND 5121)

A study of the biblical foundation for family ministry. Emphasis will be placed on the distinct roles of church and family. Attention will be given to ministry to marriages. Students will research family ministry topics.

Parenting and Faith Development

(MFFND 5122)

A study of the role of parents as spiritual shepherds of their children. Emphasis will be placed on developing the habit of family worship. Attention will be given to prayer, blessing and instruction in the home. Students will develop a parenting philosophy.

Leadership in Children and Family Ministry

(MFFND 5124)

A study of leadership in family ministry. Emphasis will be placed on family ministry implementation. Attention will be given to character development and spiritual leadership qualities. Students will develop a ministry philosophy.

The Church's Ministry with Older Persons

(MFFND 5141)

A Study of the characteristics, needs, and potential of later adulthood. A review of biblical and theological foundation for senior adult ministry will be considered. Special emphasis will be given to church and education programming for ministry with seniors.

Small Groups Ministry

(MFFND 5151)

This course provides an introductory study of the development, training, implementation, and evaluation of small group ministry. Students will be equipped to lead churches in the use of small groups for spiritual formation and evangelism.

Crisis Counseling for Church Leaders

(MFPMN 5112)

This course presents theories, strategies, and skills and an overall introduction to crisis intervention. Historical and current models for assessing and responding to crises are presented. Topics such as medical and psychological traumas including relationship loss, chronic illness, and personal transgressions, and post traumatic stress disorder are part of the curriculum. Theoretical and ethical implications are addressed. Special emphasis is given to disaster psychology, church violence, terrorism and military combat, school violence, and suicidology.

Clinical Training

(MFPSY 5545)

This course is for students seeking clinical training beyond the required four semesters. Students must spend 3 or more hours in a counseling setting, providing counseling services to actual clients. This must be done under the supervision of an individual licensed at the supervisory level for Texas LPC or LMFT state licensure (or the equivalent). Admission to this course is by professor permission only.

Clinical Training

(MFPSY 5546)

This course is for students seeking clinical training beyond the required four semesters. Students must spend 3 or more hours in a counseling setting, providing counseling services to actual clients. This must be done under the supervision of an individual licensed at the supervisory level for Texas LPC or LMFT state licensure (or the equivalent). Admission to this course is by professor permission only.

Clinical Training

(MFPSY 5547)

This course is for students seeking clinical training beyond the required four semesters. Students must spend 3 or more hours in a counseling setting, providing counseling services to actual clients. This must be done under the supervision of an individual licensed at the supervisory level for Texas LPC or LMFT state licensure (or the equivalent). Admission to this course is by professor permission only.

Crisis Ministry Certification

(MFPMN 5631)

Students will become certified in at least two nationally recognized programs of training for ministry in emergency or disaster situations, such as Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) and NOVA (National Organization for Victim Assistance) training.

Pastoral Care of Persons in Crisis and Grief

(MFPMN 5211)

A study of ministry to persons in acutely stressful situations. Attention will be given to the pastoral care of individuals suffering personal trauma such as disease, abuse, depression, and bereavement. Students will learn about the dynamics of the grief process, critical incident and post-traumatic stress, and suicide awareness and intervention. They will also learn basic principle of ministry in mass-casualty situations.

The Functioning Church

(MFADM 2111)

A study of the biblical and theological basis for the administration ministry of the church. Focus will be given to the biblical principles of enlisting, training, and supervising leaders for church ministries.

The Teaching Church

(MFFND 2111)

A study of the biblical and theological basis for the teaching ministry of the church. Emphasis will be given to the purposes of education in New Testament churches and principles related to application.

Pastoral Leadership

Pastoral Care

Counseling Ethics I

(MFPSY 5517)

This course introduces students to foundational ethical and legal aspects of the counseling field as well as standards for professional conduct. Students will study professional socialization, the role of the counselor, core legal responsibilities and functioning, and counselor self-care. The emphasis of the course is on developing professional identity and attitudes as a Christian counselor. This course is a Prerequisite to Practicum I (MFPSY5541).

Counseling and Addictive Processes

(MFPSY 5528)

This course examines the origins and trends of addictive and compulsive behaviors, treatment options, and potential barriers to treatment. Behaviors associated with substance and alcohol abuse and addictions, compulsive gambling, sexual addictions, and eating disorders are explored within a cultural and theological framework.

Psychopathology

(MFPSY 5535)

In this course, students will study diagnosis of mental disorders, the criteria for these diagnoses, psychotropic pharmacology, and the development of treatment planning skills utilized in professional/clinical mental health settings. Students will learn appropriate use of the current version of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Health, along with understanding uses and misuses of psychotropic medications.

Human Growth and Development

Christian Discipleship

(MFLDS 2110)

A study of biblical principles of discipleship, how to develop an integrated church-wide plan for mentoring Christians at each stage of life and maturity, and how to implement small group ministry for spiritual formation, discipleship and evangelism.

Basic Christian Counseling

(MFPSY 5621)

An introduction to theories and methods of Christian counseling. Attention will be given to personality theories, counseling techniques, and theology found in Scripture, and to the integration of these principles with current psychological theories and methods. The student will learn basic counseling skills and techniques and will develop a personal model of counseling consistent with Scripture.

Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE)

(MFPMN 5116)

One unit (440 hours) of supervised pastoral care in a clinical setting under guidance of a supervisor certified by the Association for Clinical Pastoral Education (ACPE). It is recommended that student completes Pastoral Care (MFPMN5111) before entering a CPE program.